Frequently Asked Questions
"If Your Heart Is In It, Ours Is Too"
Application Process for Waiver Services
To make the process easier, we’ve outlined the steps to apply for Louisiana Medicaid Waiver services below:
Contact Your Local Human Services District
Start by reaching out to your local Human Services District for an initial assessment. They will determine your level of
need and confirm your eligibility. If eligible, you can request to be added to the Request for Services Registry (RFSR).
Depending on your need level, you may:
-
Be placed on a waitlist, or
-
Receive an immediate waiver slot offer.
To apply for waiver services in Region 7, contact:
Northwest Louisiana Human Services District) NLHSD
-
Phone: 318-741-7455
-
Fax: 318-741-7448
-
Waiver Office: 1-800-862-1409
Keep in mind that Home & Community-Based Services have specific eligibility requirements and waiver availability depends on funding, request timing, and level of need as determined by the RFSR.
Need Help?
This process can feel overwhelming, but Shepherd’s Heart is here to assist you! Contact us today for guidance and support.
How to Apply for Long Term Medicaid
There are four ways to apply for Louisiana Medicaid:
1️-Online: Apply through the Medicaid Self-Service Portal.
2️-By Phone: Call Louisiana Medicaid Customer Service at 1-888-342-6207 or visit any Medicaid Application Center for assistance.
3️-By Mail/Fax: Download, print, and complete an application, then follow the provided instructions to fax or mail the form.
4️- In Person: Visit your nearest Medicaid office to apply directly.
For more details on, review the Louisiana Department of Health’s requirements. If applying for long-term care for someone with developmental disabilities, consider exploring additional services that may assist individuals who do not currently meet income or savings limitations.
What is the Freedom of Choice (FOC)
Freedom of Choice in services ensures that individuals and their families have the right to select the provider that best meets their needs. The Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) upholds this right by allowing individuals to choose from qualified service providers.
To make an informed decision, it is important to research and evaluate potential providers to determine which agency is best suited to support you or your family member’s specific needs.
What is the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD)?
The Louisiana Department of Health’s Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) provides community-based services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities through the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waiver Programs. These waivers offer flexibility and choice, allowing individuals to live in their preferred setting while still receiving Medicaid State Plan benefits.
Available Waiver Programs:
-
Children’s Choice Waiver (CC)
-
Supports Waiver (SW)
-
Residential Options Waiver (ROW)
-
New Opportunities Waiver (NOW)
Each home and community-based waiver includes specific service packages and eligibility requirements. Waiver opportunities depend on available funding and level of need based on the SUN (screening for urgency of needs) are offered on a first-come, first-served basis through the Request for Services Registry (RFSR).
What is Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT)
EPSDT is a Medicaid benefit that provides comprehensive and preventive healthcare services for children and young adults under the age of 21. This program ensures that eligible individuals receive regular health screenings, early detection, and necessary treatments to promote overall well-being.
Eligibility for EPSDT
EPSDT benefits are available to all Medicaid recipients from birth through age 20 who are not receiving Individual Family Support (IFS) waiver services. However, individuals receiving IFS waiver services are eligible for EPSDT Personal Care Services once through their provider of choice.
Children enrolled in the Children’s Choice Waiver can receive both Personal Care Services (PCS) and Family Support Services on the same day; however, these services cannot be provided simultaneously.
Services Offered Through EPSDT
The program covers a variety of essential support services, examples including:
-
Basic assisted daily skill for personal care (PCS)
-
Community PT, OT and ST
-
ABA Therapy
-
Extended Home Health Services (EHH)
-
PDHC (Pediatric Day Healthcare)
What Is the Children’s Choice Waiver (CC)?
The Children’s Choice Waiver (CC) provides home and community-based services for individuals aged 0 to 20 who live with their families or are transitioning from an institution back home. This waiver offers a customized support package with an annual cost limit, allowing for flexibility in service selection.
What Is the Supports Waiver (SW)?
The Supports Waiver (SW) provides home and community-based services for individuals aged 18 and older who qualify for OCDD waiver services. This program is designed to offer flexible support but does not provide 24/7 care.
What Is the Residential Options Waiver (ROW)?
The Residential Options Waiver (ROW) provides home and community-based services to individuals of all ages who qualify for OCDD waiver services. This waiver is budget-capped, meaning each person’s annual budget is determined based on their assessed support needs, which are evaluated using the Inventory for Client and Agency Planning (ICAP) assessment.
What Is the New Opportunities Waiver (NOW)?
The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) provides home and community-based services for individuals aged 3 and older who qualify for OCDD waiver services. This waiver focuses on activity-based support rather than continuous custodial care.
How to Report a Complaint
Complaints should be directed to the appropriate regional district/authority, the OCDD central office at 1-866-783-5553, or the relevant supports and services centers.
Reporting Suspected Abuse or Neglect
If you suspect someone is being abused or neglected, report it to the appropriate agency:
-
Child Protective Services: 1-855-452-5437
-
Adult Protective Services: 1-800-898-4910
-
Elderly Protective Services (age 60+): 1-833-577-6532